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Tourism takes flight in Monaro

Mr Barilaro and Bronnie Taylor MLC have welcome today’s announcement by REX which will see services commence between Sydney and the Snowy Mountains (Cooma) in March 2016.

“This is a game changer for our region; these flights will make the Snowy Mountains more accessible for domestic and international tourists wanting to experience the beauty of this region.” said Mr Barilaro.

“Whilst over half of international tourists visiting Australia arrive at Sydney’s Kingsford-Smith Airport, only 20 per cent travel on to regional NSW. This new direct flight from Sydney to Cooma will make it easier for International visitors to discover the wonders of the Monaro during both winter and summer seasons.”

Ms Taylor said the Snowy Mountains region has been without air services since 2013 when Brindabella Airlines was placed into receivership.

“The NSW Government deregulated the route between Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport and Cooma, which assisted Rex decision to service the route.

“We are committed to making it easier for operators to service this region,” Ms Taylor said.

The Snowy Mountains airport was also one of the 24 shortlisted projects under the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund Regional Airports Program.

“This funding aims to help strengthen and diversify regional economies with support for tourism infrastructure projects including the expansion of regional airports that service popular regional tourism destinations,” said Mr Barilaro.

“The local tourism industry makes a significant contribution to the economy and the Government is keen to support that contribution by investing in regional infrastructure to help boost visitor numbers and create jobs.”

The Sydney to Cooma service will be operated by Rex’s fleet of 34-seat Saab 340 aircraft with fares starting at $149 each way (plus a booking/services surcharge).

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